Five quirky flicks you should rent this week

Mar. 24, 2014

What can go wrong in a movie about drinking buddies? / Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Written by

Cat Murphy

Photo Editor

Probably you missed these films in theaters. Head to Hastings (or que them up on Netflix), because they deserve a spin in your blu-ray player. Plus, we've got great suggestions for movie-time munchies to accompany each film.

“The Way, Way Back”

It may be freezing outside, but this coming-of-age story has 87 degrees written all over it. Liam James plays scrawny, 14 year old Duncan, who's a bit of a social misfit. Unfortunately for him, this awkward stage of life includes a family vacation with his mom's jerk boyfriend (Steve Carell). Like most coming of age tales, this one includes an unlikely friendship, a love interest and an opportunity for the protagonist to spread his wings. However, writers/directors Nat Faxon and Jim Rash do such a nice job, the story feels fresh, realistic and relatable.

This movie calls for Cool Ranch Doritos and Capri Sun pouches.

“On A Clear Day”

Grief and transition often do strange things to a person. People disconnect. They disengage. And if the person's name is Frank Redmond (Peter Mullan), then he might swim the English Channel as well. Set in Glasgow, Scotland, this uplifting drama is full of great accents, grey weather and making peace with the past.

Enjoy this film over fish and chips.

“Drinking Buddies”

The cast list alone is reason enough to give this indie flick a shot. Anna Kendrick, Jack Johnson, Olivia Wilde and Ron Livingston star in a film about craft beer and the complexity of relationships. Beautiful cinematography and convincing tension earn writer and director Joe Swanberg extra kudos for this timely gem.

This is film is a Jane Austen classic retold in a Mexican American setting. Camilla Belle shines as Nora Domingez, a brainy, sensible type á la Elinor Dashwood. Her entitled, younger sister Mary, played by Alexa Vega, is skilled in reckless flirting and little else. When a tragic loss leaves them penniless, the girls move from Beverly Hills to their estranged extended family's home in East LA.

Guacamole, pico de gallo and mojitos, for this flick for sure.

“Les Émotifs Anonymes” (Romantics Anonymous)

Non-francophones will want subtitles for this delightful rom-com, but it is well worth it. A reclusive, gifted chocolatier and the timid owner of a struggling candy company cross paths in Lyon, France. While a shared love of chocolate draws them together, the extreme shyness they also hold in common could keep them apart. Jean-René and Angélique's social anxiety makes this charming, whimsical film that much more endearing.